Construction Finally Commences at Dilapidated Surfside Site in Port Hueneme

After years of legal battles and neighborhood frustration, the long awaited transformation of the Surfside Motel and Apartments is finally underway. Construction crews have been spotted on the site at 615 Port Hueneme Road since mid December, marking the first significant activity in a redevelopment saga that has spanned over a decade. The progress comes seven months after the property owner, notorious landlord Dario Pini, entered into a strict compliance agreement with the city.

A History of Violations and Legal Hurdles

The Surfside property has been a point of contention for Port Hueneme residents for years. In May 2025, city officials identified a staggering 197 violations on the property, ranging from missing fire extinguishers and inoperable smoke detectors to unsafe utility connections. The conditions were deemed a public nuisance and a substantial danger to the health and safety of the community.

Under the guidance of specialized housing attorneys, Port Hueneme forced Pini into an eleven page compliance agreement. This document set a hard deadline of May 19, 2026, for the site to be fully brought up to code. If Pini fails to meet this deadline, the city has the power to place the property under the control of a third party receiver, which would effectively strip him of his management over the project.

Visible Signs of Progress for the Community

City Manager James Vega noted that while the community has been skeptical due to years of stalled promises, the current activity is a major step forward. Demolition and rough grading have already been completed, and workers are now focused on early electrical installations and unit remodeling. The property has also been secured with new fencing to prevent illegal activity during the renovation process.

Pini’s legal team claims they are doing their best to meet the city’s latest requirements and have successfully obtained all necessary permits from both city and county agencies. However, city staff remain cautious. Vega stated that while the city is removing unnecessary obstacles to ensure success, they cannot predict Pini’s long term actions. The primary goal is to resolve the blight once and for all for the benefit of Port Hueneme residents.

Consequences of the 2026 Deadline

The next few months will be critical for the Surfside project. As construction continues, city inspectors will be tracking compliance at every step. The redevelopment plan includes 41 apartment units and 32 motel rooms, which is expected to breathe new life into the area. If the project stalls again, the city is prepared to take further legal measures to ensure the site does not return to its previous state of decay.